Cakes, cupcakes, pies and cookies are all available gluten-free from some local bakeries.

Cakes, cupcakes, pies and cookies are all available gluten-free from some local bakeries. (Amy Davis, Baltimore Sun photo)

Kit Waskom Pollard, For The Baltimore Sun

When it comes to holiday desserts, going gluten-free doesn't require hours in the kitchen.

"Baltimore is a haven for those who require a gluten-free diet," says Kate Hudkins, the editor of the Gluten-free in Baltimore blog (glutenfreebaltimore.blogspot.com). "As the years have gone by, I've seen an amazing increase in the number of options available for gluten-free desserts on menus at local restaurants and bakeries."

So put down the spatula and pick up the phone. Bakeries all over the Baltimore region are whipping up delicious gluten-free desserts that will look great on any holiday table. Shown here, some of our favorites. Note: All bakeries have additional gluten-free offerings.